Buxton Crescent and Thermal Spa
Experience Georgian elegance and healing thermal waters at Buxton Crescent's luxurious spa and heritage hotel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter spa, more space
Buxton Crescent and Thermal Spa
Best Time
Quieter spa, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Georgian elegance and healing thermal waters at Buxton Crescent's luxurious spa and heritage hotel.
"The rooftop pool is a personal highlight, offering relaxation with stunning views."
🎯 Book Spa Packages
Consider packages for spa access, treatments, and even dining for better value.
💧 Embrace the Thermal Water
Don't miss swimming in the naturally heated mineral water, a core part of the experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rooftop Thermal Pool
Spa
Soak in the warm mineral waters with panoramic views. A truly unique and relaxing experience.
+2
St Ann's Spring Mineral Water
Spa
Experience the ancient, naturally heated thermal water, believed for centuries to have healing properties.
Georgian Architecture
Buxton Crescent building
Admire the grandeur of this historic 18th-century spa hotel, a masterpiece of Georgian design.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Thermal Spa Experience
+1Explore the Historic Crescent
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Spa Packages
Consider packages for spa access, treatments, and even dining for better value.
💧 Embrace the Thermal Water
Don't miss swimming in the naturally heated mineral water, a core part of the experience.
🚶♀️ Explore the Crescent
Take time to appreciate the historic architecture and heritage exhibits.
🍽️ Dining Options
Restaurant 1789 offers delicious seasonal dishes, but some find sharing platters pricey.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Spa Packages
Consider packages for spa access, treatments, and even dining for better value.
💧 Embrace the Thermal Water
Don't miss swimming in the naturally heated mineral water, a core part of the experience.
🚶♀️ Explore the Crescent
Take time to appreciate the historic architecture and heritage exhibits.
🍽️ Dining Options
Restaurant 1789 offers delicious seasonal dishes, but some find sharing platters pricey.
🎶 Ambiance Wishlist
Some visitors wished for spa music in relaxation rooms to enhance the atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Buxton Crescent offers a luxurious spa experience with stunning Georgian architecture and unique thermal waters, particularly praised for its rooftop pool. While many enjoy the facilities and historical ambiance, some guests found the dining value lacking and service inconsistent, suggesting room for improvement in attention to detail to match the luxury price point.
"Had such a lovely afternoon at Buxton Crescent with my friend. We had a really relaxing time and our personal highlight was the rooftop pool! The spa was not full and this meant we could have plenty of time and space in each room. Changing rooms were clean and well maintained with secure lockers and nice products to use. My only qualm was that it would have been nice to have spa music in rooms such as the heated lounger room to complete the ambience."
Naina K
"The spa is lovely, it’s a beautiful building and the facilities were good and varied. We had a relaxing evening and a wonderful treatment. Some of the pools were a little bit on the colder side.
Unfortunately, the service was hit and miss and didn’t feel very special. When we ordered our food we had to fill out a form and it felt like ordering from a school canteen. The service was quite slow too.
We got a sharing platter as part of our package but it did not feel like good value for money at all, it didn’t even include drinks and was a very small and uninspiring platter.
We had a lovely evening and it is a beautiful spa but I wouldn’t rush back. I would look elsewhere first for better value for money and a little more attention to detail to make the experience feel extra special."
Bryony
"Best Spa I’ve been to! Went to the morning spa experience on a Saturday during the school summer holidays and it was so quiet! We had most pools, saunas and steam rooms completely to ourselves. The rooftop pool is beautiful, the crescent itself is stunning and the facilities were fantastic."
Emily B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Buxton Crescent is approximately an hour's drive from Manchester. You can also take a train from Manchester Piccadilly to Buxton station, which is a short taxi or bus ride away from the Crescent.
Yes, there is parking available for guests. It's advisable to check with the hotel directly for specific details and any associated fees.
Absolutely! You can book spa experiences, treatments, or dining without an overnight stay. Many visitors enjoy a day trip to experience the spa facilities.
The historic nature of the building may present some challenges, but the Ensana Spa aims to be accessible. It's recommended to contact them directly to discuss specific needs.
Driving is convenient, especially if coming from nearby areas like Manchester. Public transport via train to Buxton station is also a good option, followed by a short local journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Spa access costs vary depending on the package and time of visit. Offers like the 'Winter Mid Week escape' can start from around £87.75 per person for an overnight stay with spa access and breakfast.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book spa treatments in advance, especially during peak times, to secure your preferred slot.
Packages typically include access to the thermal pools, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. Some may also include treatments or dining.
Yes, options range from general spa access to specific treatments and evening experiences like the 'Crescent Twilight Spa Experience'.
Opening hours can vary, but the spa is generally open throughout the day and into the evening, especially for twilight experiences. It's best to check their official website for the most current times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The spa features multiple thermal pools, including a rooftop pool, saunas, steam rooms, a heated lounger room, and relaxation areas.
Yes, the thermal water is naturally heated to around 28°C, providing a comfortable and therapeutic bathing experience.
The Buxton Crescent Experience offers an immersive journey through the history of the building and the healing properties of its thermal waters, with interactive exhibits.
Visitors highlight the rooftop pool as a must-do. Some suggest bringing your own music for relaxation rooms if you prefer ambient sounds.
The atmosphere is described as serene, elegant, and luxurious, blending Georgian charm with modern comfort.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hotel has Restaurant 1789, which is praised for its seasonal and local dishes, including a notable Daube of beef.
Some packages may not include drinks, and some visitors found sharing platters to be small and not great value for money, especially without drinks.
The restaurant focuses on seasonal, local ingredients, offering well-executed dishes in a refined setting.
While specific snack options might vary, some packages include sharing platters. It's worth inquiring about lighter fare or options available within the spa area.
Restaurant 1789 is a good choice for a special occasion, offering a high-quality dining experience. Booking in advance is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the Georgian crescent, the rooftop pool area, and the elegant interiors of the hotel offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas of the spa, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other guests' privacy. Avoid taking photos in changing rooms or treatment areas.
While not explicitly stated, common courtesy dictates respecting the privacy of other guests. Focus on the architecture and scenic views.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is excellent for capturing the ambiance, especially in the spa. A wider lens can be useful for the grand architecture.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can offer beautiful light for exterior shots. The spa is also atmospheric in the evening.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Pavilion Gardens for outdoor activities. For a spa experience with younger children, it's best to check if any specific family-friendly sessions or facilities are available, though this is less common for high-end spas. If a spa day is a priority, look for packages that might allow younger guests access to certain pool areas, or consider alternative family-friendly attractions in the Peak District. The focus here is on a tranquil, adult-oriented spa environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Visiting for a spa day without treatments, or opting for a shorter spa access package, can also be more affordable than a full spa break. Consider visiting Buxton for the day to explore the town and admire the Crescent's architecture from the outside. You can also enjoy the free Pavilion Gardens. For dining, explore local cafes and pubs in Buxton town centre for more budget-friendly options compared to the hotel's restaurant.
💖 Couples Retreat
+2 Consider booking a couples' spa treatment for an extra special experience. An overnight stay in one of the elegantly appointed rooms, combined with a fine dining experience at Restaurant 1789, makes for a memorable romantic getaway.
The serene atmosphere and the historical grandeur of the Crescent provide a beautiful backdrop for a special occasion or anniversary. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Healing Waters of Buxton
The Buxton Crescent Experience delves deeper into this history, using immersive exhibits to transport visitors back to the Regency era when the Crescent was a fashionable spa destination. You can learn about the science behind the waters and the historical figures who flocked to Buxton for its health-giving properties.
While the spa facilities are modern and luxurious, the core of the experience remains the natural thermal water. It's a chance to not only relax but also to engage with a unique natural resource that has shaped the town's identity for centuries.
A Luxurious Spa Retreat
+2 The spa aims to provide a complete wellness experience, ideal for a rejuvenating break. Visitors often highlight the rooftop thermal pool as a standout feature, offering a unique place to unwind while taking in the surroundings.
+2 The spa is generally well-maintained and clean, with a good variety of rooms to explore. Beyond the pools, the spa offers various treatments designed for pampering and relaxation. Packages often combine spa access with overnight stays and dining, providing a comprehensive escape.
+1 The Crescent Twilight Spa Experience is a popular evening option for those looking to unwind after dark. Architectural Grandeur and Heritage
The elegant crescent shape and the imposing facade are a testament to the ambition of its era, making it a significant historical landmark. Today, parts of the Crescent have been beautifully restored and house the Ensana Spa and hotel. Visitors can explore the Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust exhibits, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the building's past, its role in the social history of Buxton, and the enduring appeal of its thermal waters.
The immersive displays allow you to travel through time and appreciate the Regency-era vibes that still permeate the grand halls. Walking around the Crescent and its surroundings, such as the nearby Pavilion Gardens, provides a sense of stepping back in time. The blend of historical architecture with modern luxury creates a unique and captivating environment for visitors.
Social
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